“It made me know that if I can dream it, there’s a possibility,” says Sweeney.

For Sweeney, in just a few years he has gone kayaking, raced in a 10K and has done two open swims.

“This idea of having the courage to live beyond your dreams, that is one thing I love about this man,” says Cynthia Schmitz, Sweeney’s girlfriend.

“Swimming and kayaking and rowing, wheelchair basketball. We create opportunities and transform lives.”

That is why on Thanksgiving weekend, when Sweeney celebrates a union with Schmitz, at Sportable, the couple is turning their reception into a fundraiser for the organization that has given them so much.

“He is so courageous but it is not only Bill that can do it, anybody can,” says Schmitz.

“This is the most amazing and largest life and unbelievable life I have ever lived with a third of the of my capability,” says Sweeney.

“It really is boundless as to what some of these athletes can do,” adds Schmitz.

“Those resources will allow us to reach more athletes. Athletic wheelchairs can cost as much as $5,000.”

And Sweeney, who continues to dream big, has a surprise for his guests.

“Either with the crutches or the walker, I will be walking in,” says Sweeney.

With the help of an exoskeleton, Sweeney’s been training at Sheltering Arms in Mechanicsville to make a grand entrance into the reception.

“To be able to stand next to him to see what it feels like to be next to him and have a kiss. He’s around 6 feet he’s taller than I thought,” says Schmitz.